Human rights activist, former African Action Congress (AAC) presidential candidate and convener of the Take It Back Movement, Omoyele Sowore, on Monday arrived at the Federal High Court in Maitama, Abuja, carrying a travel bag reportedly packed in preparation for a possible arrest following the issuance of a bench warrant against him.
Sowore’s appearance came amid ongoing proceedings in a criminal case linked to social media publications and a legal dispute over his application seeking the recusal of the presiding judge, Justice Mohammed Umar.
The activist, who was accompanied by supporters and associates, maintained that he was prepared for any outcome of the proceedings and reiterated his position that the judge should step aside from the matter, citing concerns over impartiality.
The controversy surrounding the case escalated after the court issued a bench warrant for Sowore’s arrest following his absence at a previous sitting. Reports indicated that the matter had earlier been scheduled for a ruling on his application requesting that Justice Umar recuse himself from the case.
According to information before the court, Sowore had written to notify the court that he had travelled to Lagos after learning that the judge would not sit on an earlier scheduled date. However, when the matter came up subsequently in his absence, the prosecution applied for the revocation of his bail and the issuance of a bench warrant, which the court granted.
Monday’s proceedings attracted significant public attention as supporters gathered at the court premises while security operatives maintained a visible presence around the complex.
The latest development adds another chapter to Sowore’s long-running legal confrontations with state authorities. Over the years, he has faced several prosecutions arising from his activism, anti-corruption campaigns and public criticism of government policies.
Sowore first gained international attention following his 2019 arrest by the Department of State Services (DSS) in connection with the #RevolutionNow protests, a case that sparked widespread debate on civil liberties, freedom of expression and the limits of state authority.
The outcome of the current proceedings is expected to shape the next phase of the legal battle, with attention focused on the court’s decision regarding the bench warrant, Sowore’s bail status and his application seeking the recusal of the presiding judge.
As proceedings continue, the case remains one of the most closely watched legal and political matters in the country, drawing interest from civil society groups, legal practitioners and political observers.